Continuous observation of a person or location over time is called what?

• A. Surveillance
• B. Rule 16
• C. Brady v. Maryland
• D. Jencks Act

Answer: (A)

Surveillance is continuous observation of a person or location over time. This term covers the deliberate, ongoing watching of movements, behavior, and activities to gather information or monitor for security or investigative purposes. It can be done openly or covertly and often involves planning, timing, and sometimes technology to track patterns.

The other terms relate to legal procedures and rights around evidence in criminal cases—Rule 16 concerns discovery and inspection of evidence, Brady v. Maryland requires disclosure of exculpatory information, and the Jencks Act governs prior statements of government witnesses. The question is specifically asking for the word that describes ongoing observation, which is surveillance.